Waikiki Wedding
Paramount, 1937, B/W, 89 minutes, ***
Released March, 1937

The Oscar-winning song "Sweet Leilani" is just one of the tunes in this breezy romance starring Bing Crosby as a pineapple company executive who accompanies a reluctant "Pineapple Princess" on a PR tour of the islands. With Shirley Ross, Martha Raye, Bob Burns, and Anthony Quinn as a native leader.

This film is included in the DVD Box Set (shown right), along with Double or Nothing, East Side of Heaven, If I Had My Way, and Here Come the WAVES

Adolph Zukor Presents
Produced by: Arthur Hornblow, Jr.
Directed by: Frank Tuttle
Screen Play by: Frank Butler and Don Hartman, Walter DeLeon and Francis Martin
Based on a Story by Frank Butler and Don Hartman
Musical Direction: Boris Morros
Words and Music by: Leo Robin and Ralph Rainger
"Sweet Leilani" by Harry Owens
Hawaiian Lyrics by Jimmy Lowell
Orchestrations by: Victor Young
Arrangements by: Al Siegel and Arthur Franklin
Dance Direction by: LeRoy Prinz
Hawaiian Exteriors by: Robert C. Bruce
Art Direction by: Hans Dreier and Robert Usher
Interior Decorations by: A. E. Freudeman
Costumes Designed by: Edith Head
Sound Recording: Gene Merritt and Louis Mesenkop
Photographed by: Karl Struss
Special Photographic Effects by: Farciot Edouart
Edited by: Paul Weatherwax

Awards: Academy Award for Best Song ("Sweet Leilani," Harry Owens) and Academy Award nomination for Best Dance Direction (LeRoy Prinz)

Cast: Bing Crosby [Tony Marvin], Bob "Bazooka" Burns [Shad Buggle], Martha Raye [Myrtle Finch], Shirley Ross [Georgia Smith], George Barbier [J. P. Todhunter], Leif Erickson [Victor], Grady Sutton [Everett Todhunter], Granville Bates [Uncle Herman], Anthony Quinn [Kimo], Mitchell Lewis [Koalani], George Regas [Muamua], Nick Lukats [Assistant Purser], Prince Lei Lani [Priest], Maurice Liu [Kaiaka], Raquel Echeverria [Mahina], Iris Yamaoka [Secretary], Additional Cast: Kuulei DeClercq [Lani], Nalani DeClercq [Maile], Miri Rei [Specialty Dancer], Spencer Charters [Frame], Alexander Leftwich [Harrison], Harry Stubbs [Keith], Augie Goupil [Specialty Dancer], Ralph Remley [Tomlin], Pierre Watkin [John Durkin], Jack Chapin [Photographer], Pedro Regas [Cab Driver], David Newell [Radio Operator], Emma Dunn [Tony's Mother], Robert Emmett O'Connor [Policeman], Lalo Encinas [Policeman], Sojin Jr. [Bellboy], Ray Kinney [Singer]

Musical Program: [0:00] Blue Hawaii / In a Little Hula Heaven (sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:01] Lani's Song (?) (sung by little girl and Chorus); [0:04] Nani Ona Pua (sung by Bing Crosby and Chorus); [0:13] Blue Hawaii (sung by Bing Crosby and Chorus); [0:25] Momi Pele (sung by Hawiian Mens Ensemble); [0:27] Blue Hawaii (sung in Hawiian by Chorus, joined by Shirley Ross and Bing Crosby singing in English); [0:39] Sweet Leilani (sung by Bing Crosby and Chorus, danced by Hawaiian girls); [0:43] Hawiian drum dance (danced by male and female Hawiians); [0:45] In a Little Hula Heaven (sung by Shirley Ross, Bing Crosby and Chorus, danced by Hawaiians); [0:52] Okolehao (sung and danced by Martha Raye); [1:04] Sweet Is the Word for You (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:11] Sweet Is the Word for You (sung by Shirley Ross); "May I Have the Next Dream with You?" [outtake]; "My Secret Song" [outtake]; "The Tropical" [outtake]; "I Have Eyes" [outtake]; "You're a Blessing to Me" [outtake]; "Live a Love-Dream" [outtake]; "What Aloha Means" [outtake]; "Maile Dance" [outtake]

Wake Up and Live
20th Century-Fox, 1937, B/W, 91 minutes
Released August, 1937

A comedy based on the well-known, real-life feud between columnist Walter Winchell and bandleader Ben Bernie (both playing themselves). Singers Eddie Kane (Jack Haley) and Jean Roberts (Grace Bradley) manage to get an audition with Winchell, but things definitely go amiss when Kane faints from stage fright. Later, Eddie lands a job as tour guide at the radio station, where he meets "Wake Up and Live" advice program host Alice Huntley (Alice Faye). Learning of Eddie's botched audition, Alice suggests that he practice his act in an empty studio with a "dead" microphone. So, he does that, but unbeknownst to him the microphone is actually on, and his voice is broadcast live to the entire nation. Everyone loves the voice, now dubbed "The Phantom Troubadour," and the hunt is on to find out just who this guy is! Loads of laughs and plenty of music.

Producer: Kenneth MacGowan
Director: Sidney Lanfield
Screenplay: Harry Tugend and Jack Yellen (based on an original story by Curtis Kenyon and the book by Dorothea Brande)
Music Director: Louis Silvers
Song Score: Harry Revel and Mack Gordon
Choreography: Jack Haskell
Production Design: William S. Darling
Art Direction: Mark-Lee Kirk
Set Decoration: Thomas Little
Costume Design: Gwen Wakeling
Cinematography: Edward Cronjager
Film Editing: Robert L. Simpson

Cast: Walter Winchell [Himself], Ben Bernie [Himself], Alice Faye [Alice Huntley], Patsy Kelly [Patsy Kane], Ned Sparks [Steve Cluskey], Jack Haley [Eddie Kane], Walter Catlett [Gus Avery], Grace Bradley [Jean Roberts], Joan Davis [Spanish Dancer], Leah Ray [Cafe Singer], Miles Mander [James Stratton], Douglas Fowley [Herman], Etienne Girardot [Waldo Peebles], Barnett Parker [Foster], Paul Hurst [McCabe], Warren Hymer [First Gunman], The Condos Brothers [Specialty Dancers], Brewster Twins [Themselves], William Demarest [Attendant], John Sheehan [Attendant], George Givot [Manager], Edward Gargan [Murphy], Robert Lowery [Chauffeur], Charles Williams [Alberts], George Chandler [Janitor], Gary Breckner [Announcer], Rosemary Glosz [Singer], Elyse Knox [Nurse], Ellen Prescott [Girl], Harry Tyler [Buick Driver], George Andre Beranger [Accompanist], Ben Bernie and His Orchestra [Themselves], Buddy Clark [singing voice of Jack Haley]

Musical Program: Wake Up and Live (Alice Faye); Never in a Million Years (Buddy Clark dubbing for Jack Haley); There's a Lull in My Life (Alice Faye with Ben Bernie and His Orchestra); It's Swell of You (sung by Jack Haley; danced by The Condos Brothers); Oh, But I'm Happy (Alice Faye); I Love You Too Much, Muchacha (sung by Leah Ray, danced by Joan Davis); I'm Bubbling Over (sung by Grace Bradley and the Brewster Twins; danced by The Condos Brothers)


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Walking on Air
RKO, 1936, B/W, 70 minutes, ***
Released September, 1936

Kit Bennett (Ann Sothern) is in love, but her wealthy father doesn't approve of her choice. So she hires college student Pete Quinlan (Gene Raymond) to pretend to be her new-found love. Qinlan is to spend a weekend with Kit and her parents posing as a snobby French count. The theory is that upon meeting the count, Kit's father will think more highly of her real boyfriend. But of course, Kit ends up falling in love with Pete. Fun film!

Produced by: Edward Kaufman
Directed by: Joseph Santley
Screen Play by: Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby, Viola Brothers Shore and Rian James
Story by: Francis M. Cockrell
"Cabin on the Hilltop" by Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby
"My Heart Wants to Dance" and "Let's Make a Wish" Lyrics by Bert Kalmar and Sid Silvers, Music by Harry Ruby
Musical Director: Nathaniel Shilkret
Art Director: Van Nest Polglase
Associate: Al Herman
Set Dressing by: Darrell Silvera
Gowns by: Bernard Newman
Recorded by: John L. Cass
Special Effects: Vernon L. Walker
Photographed by: J. Roy Hunt
Photographic Effects: Vernon Walker
Edited by: George Hively

Cast: Gene Raymond [Pete Quinlan], Ann Sothern [Kit Bennett], Jessie Ralph [Evelyn Bennett], Henry Stephenson [Mr. Horace Bennett], George Meeker [Tom Quinlan], Gordon Jones [Joe], Maxine Jennings [Flo Quinlan], Alan Curtis [Fred Randolph], Anita Colby [Ex-Mrs. Randolph], Patricia Wilder [Reception Girl], George Andre Beranger [Albert], Charles Coleman [Butler]

Musical Program: [0:10] Cabin on the Hilltop (sung by "Siegfried Oglethorpe"); [0:13] Cabin on the Hilltop (sung by Gene Raymond); [0:36] My Heart Wants to Dance (sung by unidentified male trio and unidentified female trio); [0:39] Let's Make a Wish (sung by Gene Raymond and Ann Sothern, then sung by the unidentified male trio and female trio); [0:54] Let's Make a Wish (sung by Gene Raymond); [1:00] Cabin on the Hilltop (sung by Gene Raymond accompanied by unidentified male quartet); [1:04] My Heart Wants to Dance (sung by Gene Raymond); [1:08] My Heart Wants to Dance (excerpt sung offscreen by the male and female vocal groups at end of film)

Way Down South
Sol Lesser's Principal Productions / RKO, 1939, B/W, 60 minutes, ***
Released July, 1939

When Tim Reid's (Bobby Breen) father dies unexpectedly, his executor Martin Dill (Edwin Maxwell) moves in and immediately begins plans for "reducing expenses" of the plantation by selling off all assets he deems unneccessary for operation, in spite of Tim and Uncle Caton's objections. Mr. Reid had always made a point of not selling the slaves, and Mr. Dill wishes to sell half of them. What Tim and Caton don't know is that Dill plans to pocket the profits from the sale and leave the country. But what can a minor and a slave do to save the plantation and stop the sale of the slaves?

This film provides an interesting glimpse into the antebellum South and the plight of the slaves. Co-written by Clarence Muse, the story includes emotionally laden scenes of slaves working in the fields, a prayer meeting prior to the sale and a scene where the slaves are being separated for sale - family members, children, married couples - all for the sake of a greedy man's profit. The Hall Johnson Choir provides background vocals for the slave scenes. The music is wonderful, and the story is sometimes heart-wrenching, sometimes humorous. Definitely worth watching!!

Produced by: Sol Lesser
Directed by: Bernard Vorhaus
Assistant Director: John Sherwood
Original Story and Screenplay by: Clarence Muse and Langston Hughes
Musical Direction: Victor Young
Vocal Arrangements: Hall Johnson
Songs: "Louisiana," "Good Ground" by Clarence Muse and Langston Hughes
Art Director: Lewis J. Rachmil
Wardrobe: Albert Deanno
Sound Technician: Richard Van Hessen
Photography: Charles Schoenbaum
Film Editor: Arthur Hilton

Cast: Bobby Breen [Tim Reid], Alan Mowbray [Jacques Bouton], Ralph Morgan [Timothy Reid], Steffi Duna [Pauline], Clarence Muse [Uncle Caton], Sally Blane [Claire], Edwin Maxwell [Martin Dill], Charles Middleton [Cass], Robert Greig [Judge Ravenal], Lillian Yarbo [Janie], Matthew "Stymie" Beard [Gumbo], Willie Best [Chimney Sweep], Hall Johnson Choir [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:00] Peter, Go Ring Dem Bells (sung by Hall Johnson Choir behind titles); [0:09] Oh Dem Golden Slippers (excerpt sung by Clarence Muse, Bobby Breen and Ralph Morgan); [0:11] Good Ground (sung by the Hall Johnson Choir for Slaves singing and dancing onscreen); [0:35] Louisiana (sung by Bobby Breen onscreen with the Hall Johnson Choir offscreen); [0:37] Some Folks (Bobby Breen and party guests at Bouton's); [0:42] Nobody Pray (sung by the Hall Johnson Choir for Slaves at prayer meeting onscreen); [0:45] Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child (sung by Bobby Breen with the Hall Johnson Choir); [1:00] Good Ground (reprised by the Hall Johnson Choir for Slaves onscreen)

We're Not Dressing
Paramount, 1934, B/W, 74 minutes
Released April, 1934

Laughter, music and romance fill the screen in this shipwrecked feast of fun and enchantment that brings together a host of Hollywood's favorite talents.

Bing Crosby stars as Stephen Jones, a singing deckhand who works on the yacht of rich and beautiful Doris Worthington (Carole Lombard), over whom he is all atwitter. Among the other passengers on the wealthy heiress' yacht are Edith (Ethel Merman) and her tipsy friend Hubert (Leon Errol) and the hilarious George Burns and Gracie Allen. When the yacht has a bump with the ravages of nature, the whole bunch ends up shipwrecked on an island and is forced to fend for themselves. While Burns and Allen think flora and fauna are a vaudeville team, Jones comes to the rescue with his good natured knowledge and his comforting crooning. Despite some fears and misunderstandings, Jones is able to win the girl, save the day, and sing some sensational songs to boot!

Musical numbers include "Love Thy Neighbor," "May I?," "Once in a Blue Moon" and "She Reminds Me of You." Don't miss this wonderfully funny, heart-winning and entertaining film.   [from back of VHS sleeve]

Producer: Benjamin Glazer
Directed by: Norman Taurog
Screen Play by: Horace Jackson, Francis Martin and George Marion, Jr.
Based on Stories by: Walton Hall Smith and Benjamin Glazer
Lyrics and Music by: Mack Gordon and Harry Revel
Art Direction: Hans Dreier, Ernst Fegte
Special Effects: Barney Wolff
Photographed by: Charles Lang
Film Editing: Stuart Heisler

Cast: Bing Crosby [Stephen Jones], Carole Lombard [Doris Worthington], George Burns [George], Gracie Allen [Gracie], Ethel Merman [Edith], Leon Errol [Hubert], Ray Milland [Prince Michael], Jay Henry [Prince Alexander], Additional Cast: John Irwin [Old Sailor], Charles Morris [Captain], Ben Hendricks Jr. [1st Ship's Officer], Ted Oliver [2nd Ship's Officer], Ernie Adams [Sailor], Stanley Blystone [Doris' Officer]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Sailor's Chanty (It's a Lie) (sung by Bing Crosby and Chorus); [0:04] It's Just a New Spanish Custom (sung and danced by Ethel Merman and Leon Errol); [0:08] I Positively Refuse to Sing (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:11] Goodnight, Lovely Little Lady (just a few bars sung by Bing Crosby); [0:13] May I (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:16] Goodnight, Lovely Little Lady (just a few bars sung by Bing Crosby); [0:20] She Reminds Me of You (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:26] Goodnight, Lovely Little Lady (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:40] Love Thy Neighbor (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:43] Let's Play House (sung by Ethel Merman and Leon Errol); [0:44] Love Thy Neighbor (continued by Bing Crosby); [0:51] May I (reprised by Bing Crosby); [1:02] Once in a Blue Moon (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:12] Goodnight, Lovely Little Lady (excerpt sung by Bing Crosby at end of movie)

Wee Willie Winkie
(aka "Rudyard Kipling's Wee Willie Winkie")
20th Century-Fox, 1937, B/W, 100 minutes, ***
Released July, 1937

Shirley Temple becomes a little soldier serving the Queen in this blend of comedy and wartime drama based on a story by Rudyard Kipling and directed by John Ford. Born in America, Priscilla Williams (Shirley) arrives in India to live with her grandfather, a crusty old colonel she's never met. Life on an army post isn't easy and the colonel isn't used to having a little girl around, but Priscilla quickly earns the affection of everyone she meets, including the local rebel leader, Khoda Khan (Cesar Romero), and tough Sgt. MacDuff (Victor McLaglen). To win her grandfather's approval, she tries to become a soldier, donning a uniform and drilling with the troops. When all out war threatens, Shirley proves just how good a soldier she is, by showing the adults that avoiding senseless bloodshed isn't nearly as hard as they think. Through it all, Shirley is front and center - and a utter delight - as Private Wee Willie Winkie.  [from back of VHS sleeve]

In Charge of Production: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: Gene Markey
Directed by: John Ford
Screen Play by: Ernest Pascal and Julien Josephson
Based upon the story by Rudyard Kipling
Music Score by: Alfred Newman
Art Direction: William Darling, David Hall
Set Decorations by: Thomas Little
Costumes: Gwen Wakeling
Sound: Eugene Grossman, Roger Heman
Photography: Arthur Miller
Film Editor: Walter Thompson

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Interior Decoration (William S. Darling and David Hall)

Cast: Shirley Temple [Priscilla Williams], Victor McLaglen [Sergeant MacDuff], C. Aubrey Smith [Colonel Williams], June Lang [Joyce Williams], Michael Whalen [Coppy (Lieut. Brandes)], Cesar Romero [Khoda Khan], Constance Collier [Mrs. Allardyce], Douglas Scott [Mott], Gavin Muir [Captain Bibberbeigh], Willie Fung [Mohammet Dihn], Brandon Hurst [Bagby], Lionel Pape [Major Allardyce], Clyde Cook [Pipe Major Sneath], Lauri Beatty [Elsie Allardyce], Lionel Braham [Major-General Hammond], Mary Forbes [Mrs. MacMonachie], Cyril McLaglen [Corporal Tummel], Pat Somerset [Officer], Hector Sarno [Driver], Additional Cast: Jack Pennick [Soldier Guard], George Hassell [MacMonachie], Noble Johnson [Sikh Policeman], Scotty Mattraw [Merchant], Louis Vincenot [African Chieftain]

Musical Program: [0:55] several unidentified instrumentals played in background at dance, including Auld Lang Syne (waltz arrangement played by band at dance, danced by Joyce Williams and Michael Whalen and other couples); [1:17] Auld Lang Syne (sung by Shirley Temple at Victor McLaglen's deathbed); [1:19] funeral dirge played on bagpipes; [1:39] Auld Lang Syne (instrumental arrangement played by Orchestra behind end credits); There is a lot of bagpipe music played by the British troops -- the military equivalent of bugle calls, I assume.

Week-End in Havana
20th Century-Fox, 1941, Color, 80 minutes, ***½
Released October, 1941

In this "lilting musical" with "intriguing twists" (Hollywood Reporter), a salesgirl (Alice Faye) threatens to cause trouble when her cruise ship runs aground and her vacation is ruined. As compensation, she soon gets a free first class Havana holiday with the ship owner's future son-in-law (John Payne) - as well as some unexpected attention from a conniving gambler (Cesar Romero) and his girlfriend (Carmen Miranda).

Week-End in Havana marked the third time that Alice Faye co-starred with John Payne. The film helped establish them as one of the popular romantic film duos of the day.   [from back of VHS sleeve]

One of my favorite Alice Faye movies. John Payne and Alice Faye are great together. Really funny film! "Tropical Magic" is a musical standout. The DVD is beautiful restoration and is beautifully packaged!! [JJ]

Produced by: William LeBaron
Directed by: Walter Lang
Original Screen Play by: Karl Tunberg and Darrell Ware
Lyrics and Music by: Mack Gordon and Harry Warren
Musical Direction: Alfred Newman
Dances Staged by: Hermes Pan
Art Direction: Richard Day, Joseph C. Wright
Set Decorations: Thomas Little
Costumes: Gwen Wakeling
Makeup Artist: Guy Pearce
Sound: E. Clayton Ward, Roger Heman
Director of Photography: Ernest Palmer
Photographed in Technicolor
Technicolor Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Morgan Padelford
Film Editor: Allen McNeil

Cast: Alice Faye [Nan Spencer], Carmen Miranda [Rosita Rivas], John Payne [Jay Williams], Cesar Romero [Monte Blanca], Cobina Wright, Jr. [Terry McCracken], George Barbier [Walter McCracken], Sheldon Leonard [Boris], Leonid Kinskey [Rafael], Chris-Pin Martin [Driver], Billy Gilbert [Arbolado], Hal K. Dawson [Mr. Marks], William Davidson [Captain Moss], Maurice Cass [Tailor], Leona Roberts, Harry Hayden [Passengers], Additional Cast: Hugh Beaumont [Officer], Major Sam Harris [Gambler], The Carmen Miranda Band [Band in Nightclub], Nacho Galindo [Vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] A Weekend in Havana (sung by Carmen Miranda and Chorus with the Carmen Mirand Band, strains used in background score throughout film); [0:11] A Weekend in Havana (sung by Chorus behind montage of Havana scenes); [0:17] Rebola a Bola (Embolada) (sung by Carmen Miranda with the Carmen Miranda Band); [0:19] When I Love I Love (sung by Carmen Miranda with the Carmen Miranda Band); [0:22] Tropical Magic (sung in Spanish by male trio at nightclub, then sung in English by Alice Faye); [0:39] Romance and Rhumba (sung by Alice Faye, Cesar Romero and Chorus, danced by Alice Faye, Cesar Romero and nightclub partrons); [0:46] The Man with the Lollipop Song (excerpt sung by Nacho Galindo -- unfortunately, this number was trimmed); [0:49] Tropical Magic (reprised by Alice Faye and John Payne in a donkey cart); [1:14] The Nango (Nyango) (sung by Carmen Miranda and Chorus with the Carmen Miranda Band, danced by Carmen Miranda, Chorus Girls and some of the nightclub patrons); [1:19] Finale: A Weekend in Havana (sung by Carmen Miranda, Cesar Romero, Alice Faye, John Payne and Chorus)

Welcome Stranger
Paramount, 1947, B/W, 107 minutes
Released June, 1947

Stars Bing Crosby and Barry Fitzgerald reunited [after Going My Way], albeit with a different calling, in this tune-filled tale of a small town whose veteran doctor is at first put off by the arrival of his new colleague, who has a habit of breaking into song. Joan Caufield co-stars.

Producer: Sol C. Siegel
Director: Elliott Nugent
Screenplay: Arthur Sheekman
Musical Score: Robert Emmett Dolan
Song Score: James Van Heusen and Johnny Burke
Dance Director: Billy Daniels
Art Direction: Hans Dreier, Franz Bachelin
Set Decoration: Sam Comer, John MacNeil
Costume Design: Edith Head
Sound: Stanley Cooley, Joel Moss
Cinematography: Lionel Lindon
Film Editing: Everett Douglas

Cast: Bing Crosby [Dr. Jim Pearson], Joan Caulfield [Trudy Mason], Barry Fitzgerald [Dr. Joseph McRory], Wanda Hendrix [Emily Walters], Frank Faylen [Bill Walters], Elizabeth Patterson [Mrs. Gilley], Robert Shayne [Roy Chesley], Larry Young [Dr. Ronnie Jenks], Elliott Nugent [Dr. White], Percy Kilbride [Nat Dorkas], Charles Dingle [Charlie Chesley], Don Beddoe [Mort Elkins], Thurston Hall [Congressman Beeker], Lillian Bronson [Miss Lennek], Mary Field [Secretary], Paul Stanton [Mr. Daniels], Pat McVey [Ed Chanock], Milton Kibbee [Ben the Bus Driver], Clarence Muse [Clarence the Steward], Charles Middleton [Farmer Pinkett], Margaret Field [Cousin Hattie], Erville Alderson [Train Companion], John Westley [Mr. Cartwright], Edward Clark [Mr. Weaver], Ethel Wales [Mrs. Sims], Frank Ferguson [Mr. Crane], Bea Allen [Telephone Operator], Gertrude W. Hoffman [Miss Wendy], Douglas Wood [Mr. Tilson], Fred Datig, Jr. [Al], John Ince, Franklyn Farnum [Friends], Clarence Nordstrom [Man], Brandon Hurst [Man], Julia Faye [Woman], John "Skins" Miller [Citizen]

Musical Program: Smile Right Back at the Sun (Bing Crosby); Country Style (sung by Bing Crosby, danced by Ensemble); My Heart Is a Hobo (Bing Crosby); As Long As I'm Dreaming (Bing Crosby)

The West Point Story
(aka Fine and Dandy)
Warner Bros., 1950, B/W, 107 minutes, ***½
Released December, 1950

Yankee Doodle Dandy Academy Award winner James Cagney puts on his dancing shoes again for this merry musical comedy packed with spirited starpower and lively tunes by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn.

Cagney's Broadway showman is down on his luck yet full of hotshot ideas. Brought to West Point to stage the cadets' annual musical, he decides to make it a tryout for a Broadway transfer. But first, he must lure the show's talented lead (Gordon MacRae) out of the military. He's got just the right bait: a sweet-natured Hollywood star (Doris Day). Virginia Mayo and Gene Nelson also star alongside the irrepressible Cagney, who's "in rare good form, singing, dancing and wisecracking in his most electrifying style" (Bosley Crowther, The New York Times).
[from back of DVD case]

Produced by: Louis F. Edelman
Directed by: Roy Del Ruth
Screen Play by: John Monks Jr., Charles Hoffman and Irving Wallace
From a Story by by Irving Wallace ("Classmates")
Original Songs: Music by Jule Styne, Lyrics by Sammy Cahn
Musical Direction: Ray Heindorf
Orchestrations: Frank Perkins
Vocal Arrangements: Hugh Martin
Dance Numbers Directed by: LeRoy Prinz
Staged by: Eddie Prinz and Al White
James Cagney's Dances Created by Johnny Boyle, Jr.
Technical Adviser: Col. William G. Proctor
Art Director: Charles H. Clarke
Set Decorator: Armor E. Marlowe
Wardrobe by: Milo Anderson, Marjorie Best
Sound by: Francis J. Scheid
Director of Photography: Sid Hickox
Special Effects by: Edwin DuPar
Film Editor: Owen Marks

Cast: James Cagney [Elwin Bixby], Virginia Mayo [Eve Dillon], Doris Day [Jan Wilson], Gordon MacRae [Tom Fletcher], Gene Nelson [Hal Courtland], Alan Hale, Jr. [Bull Gilbert], Roland Winters [Harry Eberhart], Raymond Roe [Bixby's "Wife"], Wilton Graff [Lt. Col. Martin], Jerome Cowan [Jocelyn], Frank Ferguson [Commandant], Russ Saunders [Acrobat], Jack Kelly [Officer-in-Charge], Glenn Turnbull [Hoofer], Walter Ruick [Piano Player], Luther Crockett [Senator], Victor Desney [French Attache], Wheaton Chambers [Secretary], James Dobson, Joel Marston, Bob Hayden, DeWitt Bishop, John Hedloe, Don Shartel, James Young [Cadets], Bonnie Lou Williams [singing voice of Virginia Mayo]

Musical Program: [0:00] Hail Alma Mater (sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:01] It's Raining Sundrops (excerpt sung by Chorus; danced by James Cagney, Virginia Mayo and Chorus in rehearsal); [0:13] One Hundred Days 'Til June (sung by Gordon MacRae and Chorus); [0:16] By the Kissing Rock (sung by Gordon MacRae; danced by MacRae, Alan Hale, Jr. and Chorus); [0:18] By the Kissing Rock (sung and danced by James Cagney and Virginia Mayo, Bonnie Lou Williams dubbing for Virginia Mayo); [0:20] Long Before I Knew You (sung by Gordon MacRae, danced by Gene Nelson); [0:36] Long Before I Knew You (instrumental danced by Gene Nelson); [0:44] Ten Thousand Four Hundred Thirty-Two Sheep (sung by Doris Day and Mens' Chorus); [0:54] The Military Polka (sung by Doris Day, Gordon MacRae and Chorus; danced by Doris Day, James Cagney, Virgina Mayo, Gene Nelson and Chorus); [0:59] You Love Me (sung by Gordon MacRae); [1:03] By the Kissing Rock (reprised by Gordon MacRae and Doris Day); [1:10] The Corps (spoken by Gordon MacRae, sung by Chorus); [1:20] The Toy Trumpet (instrumental danced by Gene Nelson and Chorus); [1:31] Semper Fidelis (marched by Cadets); [1:32] The Toy Trumpet (instrumental danced by Chorus); [1:33] You Love Me (reprised by Gordon MacRae, joined by Doris Day); [1:37] B 'Postrohe K No 'Postrophe Lyn (sung and danced by James Cagney and Chorus); [1:39] It Could Only Happen in Brooklyn (sung by James Cagney, danced by James Cagney and Virginia Mayo; sung and danced by Cagney and Chorus); [1:44] This Is the Finale (sung and danced by Cast and Chorus, includes short reprisals of several songs from the score)

Winner of ten Academy Awards, this electrifying musical sets the ageless tragedy of Romeo and Juliet against the backdrop of gang warfare in the slums of New York in the late 1950s. Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim's unforgettable score ("Maria," "In America," "Tonight") and Jerome Robbins' exuberant choreography are woven with a mix of realism and fantasy to capture the tale with heart-breaking richness.

Natalie Wood plays Maria, whose first taste of love is fated for tragedy amidst the vicious rivalry of two street gangs - the Jets and the Sharks - one Anglo, one Puerto Rican. Along with Richard Beymer as her devoted lover, the gifted young cast also features Rita Moreno and George Chakiris - both of whom won Oscars for their supporting roles.

West Side Story clearly set a standard that remains to this day unsurpassed in movie musicals.  [from back of VHS sleeve]

Is this the best movie musical ever made? It is certainly one of the very best! A modern-day "Romeo and Juliet;" a modern-day American tragedy that would be great even without the music. But with the music, it packs an incredible punch! All of the music is wonderful, but the big hits were "Maria," "America," "Tonight," "I Feel Pretty," and "One Hand, One Heart."

I've been listening to this soundtrack since sometime in the early 1960s, and to this day it still gives me goose bumps -- definitely some of the best music of all time! [JJ]

MGM Classic Musicals Collection DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and Guys and Dolls, Fiddler on the Roof, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Produced by: Robert Wise
Associate Producer: Saul Chaplin
Directed by: Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins
Assistant Director: Robert E. Relyea
Screenplay by: Ernest Lehman
Based upon the Stage Play Produced by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince by arrangement with Roger L. Stevens; Book by Arthur Laurents, Music by Leonard Bernstein, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim; Play Conceived, Directed and Choreographed by Jerome Robbins
Music by: Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by: Stephen Sondheim
Orchestrations: Sid Ramin, Irwin Kostal
Musical Supervision: Saul Chaplin, Johnny Green, Sid Ramin, Irwin Kostal
Musical Assistant: Betty Walberg
Choreography by: Jerome Robbins
Music Conducted by: Johnny Green
Production Designed by: Boris Leven
Set Decorator: Victor Gangelin
Costumes Designed by: Irene Sharaff
Make-up: Emile La Vigne
Hairdresser: Alice Monte
Sound by: Murray Spivack, Fred Lau, Vinton Vernon
Director of Photography: Daniel L. Fapp
Photographic Effects: Linwood Dunn
Filmed in Technicolor, Panavision 70
Film Editing: Thomas Stanford

Awards: Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (George Chakiris), Best Supporting Actress (Rita Moreno), Best Director, Best Color Cinematography (Daniel L. Fapp), Best Film Editing (Thomas Stanford), Best Score - Musical (Saul Chaplin, Johnny Green, Sid Ramin and Irwin Kostal), Best Art Direction/Set Decoration - Color (Boris Leven and Victor A. Gangelin), Best Costume Design - Color (Irene Sharaff) and Best Sound (Fred Hynes and Gordon E. Sawyer); Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay (Ernest Lehman)

Ranked #41 in the AFI 100
Ranked #2 in the AFI's Greatest Movie Musicals

Cast: Natalie Wood [Maria], Richard Beymer [Tony], Russ Tamblyn [Riff], Rita Moreno [Anita], George Chakiris [Bernardo ('Nardo)], Simon Oakland [Schrank], Ned Glass [Doc], William Bramley [Krupke], Jets: Tucker Smith [Ice], Tony Mordente [Action], David Winters [A-Rab], Eliot Feld [Baby John], Burt Michaels [Snowboy], David Bean [Tiger], Robert Banas [Joyboy], Scooter Teague [Big Deal], Harvey Hohnecker [Mouthpiece], Tommy Abbott [Gee-Tar], Their Girls: Susan Oakes [Anybodys], Gina Trikonis [Graziella], Carole D'Andrea [Velma], Sharks: Jose De Vega [Chino], Jay Norman [Pepe], Gus Trikonis [Indio], Eddie Verso [Juano], Jaime Rogers [Loco], Larry Roquemore [Rocco], Robert Thompson [Luis], Nick Covacevich [Toro], Rudy Del Campo [Del Campo], Andre Tayir [Chile], Their Girls: Yvonne Othon [Consuelo], Suzie Kaye [Rosalia], Joanne Miya [Francisca], Additional Cast: John Astin [Glad Hand], Penny Santon [Mme. Lucia], Tucker Smith [singing voice for Russ Tamblyn], Jim Bryant [singing voice for Richard Beymer], Marni Nixon [singing voice for Natalie Wood], Betty Wand [singing voice for Rita Moreno in one scene]

Musical Program: [0:00] Prologue (played by Orchestra before movie starts); [0:05] Overture (played by Orchestra behind opening scene, danced by The Jets and The Sharks); [0:20] The Jet Song (sung by Tucker Smith dubbing for Russ Tamblyn and The Jets); [0:26] Something's Coming (sung by Jim Bryant dubbing for Richard Beymer); [0:31] Dance at the Gym / Maria (played by Orchestra, danced by the kids); [0:44] Maria (sung by Jim Bryant dubbing for Richard Beymer); [0:49] America (sung and danced by Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, The Sharks and Girls); [0:57] Tonight (sung by Jim Bryant dubbing for Richard Beymer and Marni Nixon dubbing for Natalie Wood); [1:06] Gee Officer Krupke (performed by Russ Tamblyn and The Jets); [1:20] Intermission ("I Feel Pretty" played by Orchestra); [1:23] I Feel Pretty (sung and danced by Marni Nixon dubbing for Natalie Wood, Yvonne Othon, Suzie Kaye and Jo Anne Miya); [1:32] One Hand, One Heart (sung by Jim Bryant dubbing for Richard Beymer and Marni Nixon dubbing for Natalie Wood); [1:34] Quintet (sung by Jim Bryant dubbing for Richard Beymer, Marni Nixon dubbing for Natalie Wood, Rita Moreno [partially dubbed by Marni Nixon], The Jets and The Sharks); [1:42] The Rumble (played by Orchestra); [1:46] Maria (instrumental arrangement played by Orchestra, danced by Natalie Wood); [1:50] Somewhere (sung by Jim Bryant dubbing for Richard Beymer and Marni Nixon dubbing for Natalie Wood); [1:57] Cool (sung and danced by Tucker Smith dubbing for Russ Tamblyn and The Jets); [2:06] A Boy Like That / I Have a Love (sung by Betty Wand dubbing for Rita Moreno and Marni Nixon dubbing for Natalie Wood); [2:24] Somewhere (played by Orchestra in final scene); [2:27] Medley of song score (played by Orchestra behind end credits)

When the Boys Meet the Girls
Four Leaf / MGM, 1965, Color, 97 minutes, **½
Released October, 1965

Yet another remake of Girl Crazy, but modified with contemporary setting and characters. Ginger's (Connie Francis) alcoholic father owns a ranch in Nevada, but he's going broke. Millionaire Presnell converts the ranch into a getaway for divorcees waiting for their divorces to become final.

Take a bit of Gershwin, throw in some Jazz and a bit of Rock, and what do you get? A real mish-mash of music. I have wide musical tastes, but I find this mixture a bit surprising... Arrangements of the Gershwin tunes range from "standard" to rock. The film is a quite a collection of good music, but its presentation is somewhat bizarre.

Produced by: Sam Katzman
Directed by: Alvin Ganzer
Assistant Director: Eddie Saeta
Screen Play by: Robert E. Kent
Based on the Musical Play "Girl Crazy" (by Guy Bolton and John McGowan)
Music Scored and Conducted by: Fred Karger
Songs: "But Not for Me," "Embraceable You," "Treat Me Rough," "I Got Rhythm," "Bidin' My Time" Words by Ira Gershwin, Music by George Gershwin; "Listen People" by Graham Gouldman; "Throw It Out of Your Mind" by Louis Armstrong and Bill Kyle; "Monkey See, Monkey Do" by Johnny Farrow; "Mail Call" by Fred Karger, Ben Weisman and Sid Wayne; "When the Boys Meet the Girls" by Jack Keller and Howard Greenfield; "Aurba Liberace" by Liberace
Choreography by: Earl Barton
Art Directors: George W. Davis and Eddie Imazu
Set Decorators: Henry Grace, Keogh Gleason
Make-Up by: William Tuttle
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Recording Supervisor: Franklin Milton
Director of Photography: Paul C. Vogel
Special Visual Effects: J. McMillan Johnson and Carroll L. Shepphird
In Panavision and Metrocolor
Film Editor: Ben Lewis

Cast: Connie Francis [Ginger], Harve Presnell [Danny], Herman's Hermits [Themselves], Louis Armstrong [Himself], Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs [Themselves], Liberace [Himself], Sue Ane Langdon [Tess], Fred Clark [Bill], Frank Faylen [Phin], Joby Baker [Sam], Hortense Petra [Kate], Stanley Adams [Lank], Romo Vincent [Pete], Susan Holloway [Delilah], Russ Collins [Stokes], William T. Quinn [Dean of Cody], Pepper Davis & Tony Reese [Themselves], Additional Cast: Patti Moore [Divorcee], The Standells [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:00] When the Boys Meet the Girls (sung by Connie Francis behind titles); [0:02] Monkey See, Monkey Do (sung by Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs, danced by two guys in drag); [0:05] Treat Me Rough (sung and danced by Sue Ane Langdon and Girls Chorus); [0:16] Embraceable You (sung by Harve Presnell); [0:24] Throw it Out of Your Mind (sung by Louis Armstrong); [0:38] Mail Call (sung by Connie Francis); [0:42] Listen People (sung by Herman's Hermits); [0:45] It's All in Your Mind (sung by The Standells, danced by club patrons); [0:50] Bidin' My Time (sung by Herman's Hermits); [0:55] I Got Rhythm (sung and danced by Connie Francis, Harve Presnell and Chorus); [1:06] Embraceable You (sung by Connie Francis); [1:13] Aruba Liberace (played by Liberace at the piano with bongos and maracas played by accompanying musicians); [1:17] Treat Me Rough (sung by Sue Ane Langdon); [1:22] But Not for Me (sung by Connie Francis and Harve Presnell); [1:25] Treat Me Rough (reprised by Sue Ane Langdon); [1:35] I Got Rhythm (short reprisal by Louis Armstrong at end of film)


Original soundtrack album

Where the Boys Are
Euterpe / MGM, 1960, Color, 99 minutes, ***
Released December, 1960

The original fun-in-the-sun romp, as four young gals head to pleasurable Fort Lauderdale during Easter vacation for tans, music and boys. Connie Francis, Paula Prentiss, Yvette Mimieux, Dolores Hart, Jim Hutton and George Hamilton star.

Produced by: Joe Pasternak
Directed by: Henry Levin
Assistant Director: Al Jennings
Screen play by: George Wells
Based on the Novel by Glendon Swarthout
Music: George Stoll
Original Dialectic Jazz by: Pete Rugolo
Songs: "Where the Boys Are," "Turn on the Sunshine" Words by Howard Greenfield, Music by Neil Sedaka (Courtesy Nevins-Kirshner); "Have You Met Miss Fandango?" Words by Stella Unger, Music by Victor Young
Choreograper: Robert Sidney
Art Directors: George W. Davis and Preston Ames
Set Decorations: Henry Grace, Hugh Hunt
Women's Costumes: Kitty Mager
Hair Styles by: Mary Keats
Make-Up by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Franklin Milton
Director of Photography: Robert Bronner
Special Effects: Lee LeBlanc
In CinemaScope and Metrocolor
Color Consultant: Charles K. Hagedon
Film Editor: Fredric Steinkamp

Cast: The Girls: Dolores Hart [Merritt Andrews], Yvette Mimieux [Melanie], Barbara Nichols [Lola], Paula Prentiss [Tuggle Carpenter], Connie Francis (film debut) [Angie], The Boys: Rory Harrity [Franklin], John Brennan [Dill], Ted Berger [Stout Man], George Hamilton [Ryder Smith], Frank Gorshin [Basil], Jim Hutton [TV Thompson], Additional Cast: Chill Wills [Police Captain], Vito Scotti [Maitre d']

Musical Program: [0:00] Where the Boys Are (sung by Connie Francis behind titles); [0:35] Limbo-Rak-Dance (several short excerpts performed by Students at the beach); [0:39] Easy to Love (instrumental arrangement played by orchestra at night club); [0:46] The Nuclear Love Song (played by the Basil Demmot Komos Quintet); [0:47] A Meeting Between Shakespeare and Satchel Paige on Hampstead Heath (played by the Basil Demmot Komos Quintet); [0:59] Turn on the Sunshine (sung by Connie Francis with the Basil Demmot Komos Quintet); [1:04] Jazz concert on the beach (played by the Basil Demmot Komos Quintet); [1:17] Have You Met Miss Fandango (sung by Barbara Nichols); [1:19] Don't Litter the Streets of Philadelphia (played by the Basil Demmot Komos Quintet); [1:37] Where the Boys Are (reprised by Connie Francis at end of film)

White Christmas
(aka "Irving Berlin's White Christmas")
Paramount, 1954, Color, 120min, ***½
Released October, 1954

White Christmas is a treasury of Irving Berlin classics, among them "Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep," "Sisters," "Blue Skies" and the beloved holiday song, "White Christmas."

Two talented song-and-dance men (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye) team up after the war to become one of the hottest acts in show business. One winter, they join forces with a sister act (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen) and trek to Vermont for a White Christmas. Of course, there's the requisite fun with the ladies, but the real adventure starts when Crosby and Kaye discover that the inn is run by their old army general who's now in financial trouble. And the result is the stuff dreams are made of.
[from back of VHS sleeve]

Supposedly a remake of Holiday Inn, but there's not much resemblance to the original. It's an entertaining movie, though, and it has some really good music in it. And it became a Christmas classic. Definitely worth watching! Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen's "Sisters" is a definite high-point of the film.

Produced by: Robert Emmett Dolan
Directed by: Michael Curtiz
Assistant Director: John Coonan
Written for the Screen by: Norman Krasna, Norman Panama, Melvin Frank
Lyrics and Music by: Irving Berlin
Music Direction and Vocal Arrangements by: Joseph J. Lilley
Orchestral Arrangements by: Van Cleave
Music Associate: Troy Sanders
Dances and Musical Numbers Staged by: Robert Alton
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Roland Anderson
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Grace Gregory
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Hugo Grenzbach and John Cope
Director of Photography: Loyal Griggs
Special Photographic Effects: John P. Fulton
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Filmed in VistaVision, Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Edited by: Frank Bracht

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep")

Cast: Bing Crosby [Bob Wallace], Danny Kaye [Phil Davis], Rosemary Clooney [Betty Haynes], Vera-Ellen [Judy Haynes], Dean Jagger [Gen. Waverly], Mary Wickes [Emma], John Brascia [Joe], Anne Whitfield [Susan], Richard Shannon [Adjutant], Grady Sutton [General's Guest], Sig Rumann [Landlord], Robert Crosson [Albert], Herb Vigran [Novello], Dick Keene [Assistant Stage Manager], Johnny Grant [Ed Harrison], Gavin Gordon [Gen. Carlton], Marcel de la Brosse [Maitre d'], James Parnell [Sheriff], Percy Helton [Conductor], Elizabeth Holmes [Fat Lady], Barrie Chase [Doris], I. Stanford Jolley [Station Master], George Chakiris [Specialty Dancer], Bess Flowers [nightclub extra], Trudy Stevens [singing voice of Vera-Ellen]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] unidentified instrumental (danced by Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby); [0:03] White Christmas (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:07] The Old Man (sung by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye and Mens Chorus); [0:11] Medley / montage: Heat Wave / Let Me Sing and I'm Happy / Blue Skies (sung by Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye); [0:20] Sisters (sung by Rosemary Clooney and Trudy Stevens dubbing for Vera Ellen); [0:27] The Best Things Happen While You're Dancing (sung by Danny Kaye and off-screen Girls Chorus, danced by Danny Kaye and Vera-Ellen); [0:34] Sisters (mimed by Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye to a recording of Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen [Trudy Stevens]); [0:41] Snow (sung by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Trudy Stevens dubbing for Vera-Ellen); [0:48] Sisters (reprised by Rosemary Clooney and Trudy Stevens dubbing for Vera Ellen); [0:53] Mandy (instrumental played during dance rehearsal); [0:54] "Minstrel Number" (production number sung and danced by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Chorus; includes a jazzed-up vocal of Mandy); [1:03] Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep (sung by Bing Crosby joined by Rosemary Clooney); [1:11] Choreography (sung by Danny Kaye, danced by Danny Kaye, Vera-Ellen, George Chakiris and Chorus); [1:24] The Best Things Happen While You're Dancing (sung by Danny Kaye and Chorus, danced by Danny Kaye and Vera-Ellen); [1:31] "Abraham Number" (instrumental danced by Vera-Ellen and George Chakiris); [1:36] Love, You Didn't Do Right By Me (sung by Rosemary Clooney, danced by Mens Ensemble); [1:43] What Can You Do with a General (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:49] The Old Man (sung and marched by Bing Crosby and Mens Chorus); [1:52] Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the Army (sung and danced by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera-Ellen and Rosemary Clooney; Vera-Ellen dubbed by Trudy Stevens); [1:56] Finale: White Christmas (sung by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Trudy Stevens for Vera-Ellen, Chorus and Company; danced by Children)

Whoopee!
Goldwyn / United Artists, 1930, Color, 94min, ***
Released September, 1930

The legendary stage musical brought to the screen by none other than Florenz Ziegfeld, himself. Great showcase for the incomparable Eddie Cantor. A very young Betty Grable is in the chorus. Crazy fun!

Producers: Florenz Ziegfeld and Samuel Goldwyn
Directed by: Thronton Freeland
Story by: William Anthony McGuire
Based on Owen Davis' Play The Nervous Wreck
Screen Adaptation by: William Conselman
Music by: Walter Donaldson
Lyrics by: Gus Kahn
Musical Direction: Alfred Newman
Production Scored and Played by: George Olsen and his Music
Dances and Ensembles Staged by: Busby Berkeley
Art Direction: Richard Day
Costumes Executed by: United Costumes, Inc.
Sound Recorded by: Oscar Lagerstrom
Photography by: Lee Garmes, Ray Rennahan, Gregg Toland
Filmed in Technicolor
Film Edited by: Stuart Heisler

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Interior Decoration (Richard Day)

Cast: Eddie Cantor [Henry Williams], Eleanor Hunt [Sally Morgan], Paul Gregory [Wanenis], Jack Rutherford [Sheriff Bob Wells], Ethel Shutta [Mary Custer], Spencer Charters [Jerome Underwood], Chief Caupolican [Black Eagle], Albert Hackett [Chester Underwood], William H. Philbrick [Andy McNabb], Walter Law [Judd Morgan], Marian Marsh (aka Marilyn Morgan) [Harriet Underwood], Dean Jagger [Deputy], George Morgan and His Orchestra [Specialty], Betty Grable, Virginia Bruce, Muriel Finley, Jeanne Morgan, Ruth Eddings, Ernestine Mahoney, Christine Maple, Dorothy Knapp, Claire Dodd, Jane Keithly, Mary Ashcraft, Betty Stockton, Georgia Lerch [The Goldwyn Girls]

Musical Program: [0:04] Cowboys (production number sung and danced by Betty Grable and Chorus); [0:15] I'll Still Belong to You (Paul Gregory); [0:21] Makin' Whoopee (Eddie Cantor with the Goldwyn Girls); [0:26] Today's the Day (Chorus); [0:34] A Girl Friend of a Boy Friend of Mine (Eddie Cantor); [0:46] Makin' Waffles (Eddie Cantor); [0:57] My Baby Just Cares for Me (sung and danced by Eddie Cantor); [1:06] Stetson (production number sung and danced by Ethel Shutta, Men's Chorus and Goldwyn Girls); [1:19] I'll Still Belong to You (reprise, Paul Gregory); [1:24] The Song of the Setting Sun (production number sung by Chief Caupolican, danced by Goldwyn Girls); [1:32] My Baby Just Cares for Me (reprise, Eddie Cantor)


Busby Berkeley kaleidoscope shot

Wild in the Country
20th Century-Fox, 1961, Color, 114min, ***
Released June, 1961

Presley specialized in playing the bad boy, and this is Elvis at his baddest! Wild in the Country features one of the King's greatest and most overlooked roles: a rebellious back-woods delinquent gifted with a rare literary talent. Hope Lange is the sympathetic psychiatrist who tries to help Elvis, Tuesday Weld is the King's seductive cousin, and Millie Perkins portrays his childhood sweetheart.

Boasting a screenplay by Clifford Odets, this is perhaps the sexiest and most passionate of all Presley films, and includes a quartet of hit songs, including "I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell" and "Lonely Man." Wild in the Country is Elvis at his wildest, his baddest and his best.  [from back of VHS sleeve]

Produced by: Jerry Wald
Associate Producer: Peter Nelson
Directed by: Philip Dunne
Assistant Director: Joseph E. Rickards
Screenplay by: Clifford Odets
Based on the a Novel by: J. R. Salamanca ( The Lost Country )
Music: Kenyon Hopkins
Orchestration: Edward B. Powell
Song: "Wild in the Country" by Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore and George Weiss
Art Direction: Jack Martin Smith, Preston Ames
Set Decorations: Walter M. Scott, Stuart A. Reiss
Costumes Designed by: Don Feld
Makeup by: Ben Nye
Hair Styles by: Helen Turpin
Sound: Alfred Bruzlin, Warren B. Delaplain
Director of Photography: William C. Mellor
Filmed in CinemaScope, Color by De Luxe
Film Editor: Dorothy Spencer

Cast: Elvis Presley [Glenn Tyler], Hope Lange [Irene Sperry], Tuesday Weld [Noreen], Millie Perkins [Betty Lee Parsons], Rafer Johnson [Davis], John Ireland [Phil Macy], Gary Lockwood [Cliff Macy], William Mims [Uncle Rolfe], Raymond Greenleaf [Dr. Underwood], Christina Crawford [Monica George], Robin Raymond [Flossie], Doreen Lang [Mrs. Parsons], Charles Arnt [Mr. Parsons], Ruby Goodwin [Sarah], Will Corry [Willie Dace], Alan Napier [Prof. Larson], Jason Robards, Sr. [Judge Parker], Harry Carter [Bartender], Harry Shannon [Sam Tyler], Bob "Red" West [Hank Tyler], The Jordanaires [backup vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] Wild in the Country (sung behind titles by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:26] I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:38] In My Way (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [1:15] Husky Dusty Day (sung by Elvis Presley and Hope Lange); [1:53] Wild in the Country (reprised behind end by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); Lonely Man (recorded for the film but not used); Forget Me Never (recorded for the film but not used); Both unused songs are included on the CD shown.

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
Paramount, 1971, Color, 100 minutes, ***
Released June, 1971

The one-and-only Willy Wonka "makes the world taste good" for a whole new generation in this magical family classic sparkling with brilliantly restored picture and sound! Also included is the all-new documentary "Pure Imagination," featuring interviews with Gene Wilder and the Wonka Kids and revealing production secrets from the movie!

When they find prized Golden Tickets inside their Wonka candy bars, five lucky children win a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the legendary candy factory run by the mysterious Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder). Now, on a whirlwind tour of Willy's incredible, edible realm of milk chocolate waterfalls, elfish Oompa-Loompas and industrial-sized sugar-coated creations, one very special boy will discover the sweetest secret of all: a generous, loving heart.   [from back of VHS sleeve]

Based on a Roald Dahl book, this music-filled fantasy includes the song "The Candy Man." Actually, I don't care for this movie at all, but I give it 3 stars for its produc